Mark Hughes' agent Kia Joorabchian claims the Welshman stood down as manager of Fulham in order to fulfil his ambition to compete at "the top level".

Hughes left Craven Cottage three days ago and will now sit back and assess his options, with a move to Europe a possibility as he seeks a job which would allow him to challenge for honours.

Joorabchian said: "As a manager he has ambitions to really compete at the top level and be the best he can.

"[Fulham] are where they are. They are a great top-10, mid-table club and I think Mark really wants to be right up there competing in the Champions League positions, up there competing for titles. He'd like to win some cups."